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Costa Rica Travel Costs Budget Guide Currency Converter

Costa Rica Travel Costs 2025: Budgeting Guide + Live Currency Converter

Planning your dream trip to Costa Rica? 🌴☀️ Whether you're envisioning rainforest hikes, volcano adventures, or lazy beach days, knowing how much to budget is key to making the most of your vacation.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average daily costs by travel style, reveal regional price differences, share money-saving tips, and give you a live currency exchange calculator to easily convert your home currency to Costa Rican Colón (CRC).

Let’s dive in and start planning your perfect Costa Rican getaway!

Average Daily Travel Budget for Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a wide range of travel experiences, from backpacker-friendly hostels to luxury eco-resorts. Here's a rough breakdown of what you can expect to spend per day:

Budget Traveler ($50–$80 USD/day)

  • Accommodation: Dorm beds or simple guesthouses ($15–$30/night)

  • Meals: Local sodas (small restaurants) for $5–$8 per meal

  • Transportation: Public buses or shared shuttles

  • Activities: Free or low-cost hikes, public beaches, national parks ($5–$15 entrance fees)

Mid-Range Traveler ($100–$200 USD/day)

  • Accommodation: Boutique hotels or Airbnb ($50–$120/night)

  • Meals: Mix of local eateries and tourist restaurants ($10–$20 per meal)

  • Transportation: Rental car (~$40–$70/day) or private shuttles

  • Activities: Ziplining, guided tours, boat trips ($30–$70)

Luxury Traveler ($250+ USD/day)

  • Accommodation: Upscale resorts, beachfront villas ($150–$500/night)

  • Meals: Fine dining and premium food experiences ($30+ per meal)

  • Transportation: Private drivers or domestic flights

  • Activities: Private tours, yacht charters, exclusive experiences

Regional Cost Differences in Costa Rica

San Jose

Budget Range: $40–$100 USD/day
Cheaper accommodations with plenty of local restaurants to explore.

La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)

Budget Range: $70–$150 USD/day
Slightly higher prices due to the popularity of volcano and adventure tours.

Manuel Antonio

Budget Range: $100–$200 USD/day
Home to famous beaches and a national park — expect a higher price tag.

Santa Teresa / Nosara

Budget Range: $120–$250 USD/day
Remote surf towns known for luxury stays and a laid-back surf vibe.

Puerto Viejo (Caribbean Side)

Budget Range: $50–$120 USD/day
Affordable with a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere and vibrant culture.

Common Costa Rica Travel Expenses

Here’s what you might pay for everyday needs:

  • Simple hotel room: $30–$80 per night

  • Airbnb with a kitchen: $60–$150 per night

  • Street food meal: $4–$8

  • Restaurant meal: $10–$25

  • Coffee (local café): $1.50–$3.00

  • National park entry fee: $10–$20

  • Zipline canopy tour: $50–$90

  • Car rental (economy car): $45–$70/day (insurance extra)

Money Tips for Costa Rica

  • 💳 Use Credit Cards: Widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets.

  • 🏦 Withdraw Cash at ATMs: Get Colóns at better rates than airport exchanges.

  • 💵 Bring Small Bills: Especially for remote areas, taxis, and markets.

  • 💰 Tipping: Not mandatory; restaurants usually add a 10% service fee.

  • ⚠️ Avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion: Always choose to pay in local currency when using cards.

Final Thoughts

Budgeting for Costa Rica doesn't have to be stressful.
Whether you're looking to surf at sunrise in Santa Teresa or explore waterfalls in La Fortuna, knowing the typical costs and exchange rates helps you plan smarter.

Ready to book your dream hotel?
👉 Explore the best hotels in Costa Rica here

See you in paradise! 🌺🌴

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